Italian meatloaf, or "polpettone," is a delicious dish that combines ground beef and pork with veggies, herbs, and cheese. It's a great way to use leftover meats, reflecting the resourcefulness of Italian cooking. After mixing everything, shape it into a loaf and bake until it reaches 160°F for safety. Let it rest before slicing, and enjoy tasty leftovers in sandwiches. There's plenty more to discover about this comforting meal and its variations.
History

Italian meatloaf, or "polpettone," has a rich history that reflects the resourcefulness of Italian cuisine. Originating from Italy, polpettone showcases a blend of leftover meats, herbs, and spices, turning humble ingredients into a hearty dish.
Traditionally, you'd find a mix of beef and pork, enhanced with vegetables and cheese, highlighting the flavors derived from quality ingredients. This dish gained traction among Italian immigrants in the U.S., adapting to local tastes with the introduction of marinara sauce, which added a new dimension to its flavor profile.
While the American version leans towards a spicier taste, the classic Italian polpettone remains milder, allowing the natural flavors of the meats and herbs to shine through in every bite.
Recipe

Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 cup finely chopped onions
- 1 cup finely chopped bell peppers
- 1 cup finely chopped carrots
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a skillet, sauté the onions, bell peppers, carrots, and garlic over medium heat until they're softened, about 5-7 minutes.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Mix everything together until well combined, then shape the mixture into a loaf and place it in a baking dish.
Bake for approximately 65 to 70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Extra Tips
For best results, make sure to let the meatloaf rest after baking; this allows the juices to redistribute, keeping it moist.
You can also customize the flavor by adding your favorite herbs or spices.
If you want to add a glaze, brush some additional marinara sauce or barbecue sauce on top of the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Remember that leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months, making this dish a convenient option for busy days!
Cooking Steps

To get started on your Italian meatloaf, preheat your oven to 350°F.
Mix the breadcrumbs and herbs with your ground beef mixture to create a flavorful base.
Once combined, form it into a loaf shape and you're ready to bake!
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F

Preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) is an essential step for achieving perfectly cooked Italian meatloaf.
Start by placing the oven rack in the medium position to guarantee even cooking. As you begin preheating the oven, it's vital to allow it to reach the desired temperature before placing the meatloaf inside.
This helps to avoid undercooking and confirms the meatloaf reaches the internal temperature of 160°F. Using an oven thermometer can provide accurate confirmation that the oven has hit the target of 350 degrees.
Step 2. Mix Breadcrumbs and Herbs

As you prepare your Italian meatloaf, mixing the breadcrumbs and herbs is an essential step that adds depth to the flavor.
Start by combining plain or Italian breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese to enhance both flavor and texture.
Next, mix in dried herbs like Italian seasoning, basil, and oregano to create a robust Italian flavor profile. If you have fresh herbs, chop them finely for a more vibrant taste.
Make certain the breadcrumbs and herbs are evenly distributed throughout the mixture, maintaining a consistent texture and flavor in each slice of meatloaf.
Finally, incorporate this breadcrumb and herb mixture into your meat mixture gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can lead to a dense texture.
Step 3. Add Ground Beef Mixture

Once you've prepared your breadcrumb and herb mixture, combine it with ground beef in a large bowl.
Mix in eggs, sautéed onions, and garlic until everything's well combined, creating a cohesive meat mixture. For added richness, fold in grated mozzarella cheese or Parmesan. This Italian-inspired blend enhances both flavor and texture.
If you prefer a perfect shape, you can mold the meat mixture into a loaf, about 9×5 inches, and place it on a greased baking sheet or in a loaf pan.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. This guarantees your meatloaf is thoroughly cooked but still juicy, making it a delicious centerpiece for your meal.
Step 4. Form Into a Loaf

After mixing your meatloaf ingredients well, use your hands to shape the mixture into a compact loaf, about 9×5 inches in size.
Make sure it's formed tightly so it holds its shape during cooking. Place the formed loaf on a greased or parchment-lined baking dish to prevent sticking.
If you like, create a slight indentation in the center of the loaf shape to help it cook evenly and avoid cracking on top. For extra flavor and moisture, consider topping the meatloaf with marinara sauce before baking.
Once shaped, let the meatloaf rest briefly to allow the flavors to meld, guaranteeing a delicious outcome when it's finally baked.
Enjoy the anticipation of this tasty dish!
Step 5. Bake for 1 Hour

To bake your meatloaf to perfection, first preheat your oven to 350°F.
Place your formed loaf, made with ground pork, into the oven and bake for 1 hour.
To enhance the flavor and moisture, spread marinara sauce evenly over the top before baking.
It's essential to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; aim for at least 160°F to verify it's safe to eat.
Once done, remove it from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.
This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, giving you the best meatloaf experience.
These easy recipes make for a delicious meal, so don't rush—patience pays off!
Enjoy your perfectly baked Italian meatloaf!
Final Thoughts

Even if you've never made meatloaf before, Italian meatloaf is a fantastic dish to try, combining rich flavors with simple preparation.
This classic meatloaf features a delightful mix of ground beef and pork, seasoned vegetables, eggs, and bread crumbs, creating a flavorful meal that's quick and easy. Make sure to bake it until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, ensuring your cooked meatloaf is safe to eat.
The addition of Italian sausage adds extra zest, and when cheese is melted on top, it takes the dish to another level. Plus, leftovers make for delicious sandwiches, especially when topped with more cheese.
With endless customization options, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your tastes!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Italian Style Meatloaf?
Imagine hosting a cozy dinner with friends, where you're serving a hearty dish that warms everyone's heart.
Italian style meatloaf is a savory blend of ground meat, breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs, often mixed with sautéed vegetables like onions and garlic for depth.
It's seasoned with basil and oregano, then topped with marinara sauce that seeps into the loaf as it bakes, creating a flavorful centerpiece that pairs beautifully with pasta or garlic bread.
What Is the Difference Between Italian Meatloaf and American Meatloaf?
When comparing Italian and American meatloaf, you'll notice several key differences.
Italian meatloaf often features a mix of ground meats, herbs like basil and oregano, and may include cheese for added flavor.
In contrast, American meatloaf typically relies on ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, and a ketchup glaze.
The presentation also varies, with Italian meatloaf resembling a rustic meatball, while American meatloaf is shaped into a uniform loaf for a classic look.
What Goes With Italian Meatloaf?
Imagine a vibrant garden, where fresh greens, ripe tomatoes, and zesty olives create a colorful salad.
When you're thinking about what goes with meatloaf, consider that fresh Italian salad as a perfect companion.
You could also whip up creamy polenta for a smooth texture or serve it with Parmesan smashed potatoes for comfort.
For a heartier option, don't forget about spaghetti with marinara sauce, harmonizing beautifully with those savory flavors.
How Do You Make Italian Dressing Meatloaf?
To make Italian dressing meatloaf, start by combining ground beef with Italian dressing, breadcrumbs, eggs, and grated cheese for extra flavor.
Chop up some onions and bell peppers, then mix them in for added texture.
Shape the mixture into a loaf and bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 60 minutes, or until it hits 160°F internally.
Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!